Ansah’s going into the final year of his rookie deal, and if he got to the market, he’d get very rich, based on recent deals for less-accomplished pass-rushers.

Injuries limited last year and he had just two sacks, but he had 30.0 in his first three seasons, so he’s going to make a premium whatever he decides to do. The Lions could use the franchise tag on him, which would be worth nearly $17 million for one year.

That’s much lower than the number the Lions balked at when deciding to not tag Suh ($26.9 million), but would still give them pause. Of course, that opened the door for the defensive tackle to go to Miami on a six-year, $114 million contract.

“Obviously, he’s my boy,” Ansah said. “I wish he would have stayed, but I don’t control that and I’m sure he’s happy where he’s at.”

And depending on where and how much he’s getting paid a year from now, Ansah might be very happy as well.

Suh was the second pick in the last draft before the rookie cap. Huge bonus, salary, contract. In attempts to find wiggle room for free agents, Mayhew re-structured Suh’s (huge) rookie contract multiple times.

The multiple restructures made the final year of that contract to balloon to a level that made applying the franchise tag untenable. Without the ability to apply the franchise tag the Lions had zero leverage.

I’ve watched almost all the games he has played in, very talented and quick. Never gives up on a play, great in community ( donated 94,000 cases of water to Flint). Only knock on him is injuries. Lions will offer him a good deal but I hope his asking price is realistic. I do not think Bob Quinn will overpay. He rebuilt the O-line in less then 2 seasons. D-line is the next step! Hope he stays in Detroit.